NFL brain injuries

Peter Brouillet / Getty Images

Ryan Neufeld, tight end for the Buffalo Bills, runs back a short kickoff in a game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium in in 2005. In 2011, the Social Security Administration declared the former NFL tight end 100% disabled.

Ryan Neufeld, tight end for the Buffalo Bills, runs back a short kickoff in a game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium in in 2005. In 2011, the Social Security Administration declared the former NFL tight end 100% disabled. (Peter Brouillet / Getty Images)

Conrad Dobler, an all-pro offensive lineman for the St. Louis Cardinals in the late 1970s, has had nine knee replacements since retirement and has long been unable to buy health insurance at any price. After numerous exams, interviews and depositions, Dobler was found to be 99% disabled. He received a cash award of just over $120,000 plus lifetime medical care for his injuries, according to California state records.

Conrad Dobler, an all-pro offensive lineman for the St. Louis Cardinals in the late 1970s, has had nine knee replacements since retirement and has long been unable to buy health insurance at any price. After numerous exams, interviews and depositions, Dobler was found to be 99% disabled. He received a cash award of just over $120,000 plus lifetime medical care for his injuries, according to California state records. (courtesy of Conrad Dobler)

By the thousands, professional athletes from around the country are seeking medical care or money through California’s workers’ compensation system for brain trauma and other injuries suffered on the playing field. Most of these claims come from former pro football players.